For a smoother, more scenic way to see the water, the Grace Bay catamaran sail is the pick. The boat collects guests by beachfront pickup and drop-off from selected Grace Bay hotels, which means you step off the sand and onto the boat without a drive. The trip lasts about four hours. The crew supplies snorkel gear, deli sandwiches and fresh fruit, water and soft drinks, rum punch and local beer, and local taxes are included in the price, which helps with budgeting. You sail across the shallow, bright water, stop at the reef to snorkel with a guide, and may add a stop at Little Water Cay, which has its own entrance fee paid separately in cash on the day. With a rating of about 4.8 from well over a thousand reviews, it is among the strongest-reviewed options on Viator for the island. The catamaran format is quieter and more spacious than a motor boat, and the sailing is the point as much as the snorkeling.
The pick-up detail is the practical selling point. If your hotel is on the Grace Bay shoreline and is on the pick-up list, the boat can collect you from the beach, which saves a taxi and keeps the morning relaxed. If your hotel is not on the list, you will need to meet at the departure point, so confirm this when you book. Check the starting time on the listing, because it may differ by season.
On the water: a catamaran gives a stable ride and a lot of deck space, so it is a good choice for people who worry about rougher motor-boat trips. The snorkel stop is on a reef with a guide, and the sail is a chance to take photographs of the colour change from the pale shallows to deep blue. Gratuities are not included, so bring cash for the crew. Little Water Cay carries an entrance fee that is not in the ticket price, roughly the cost of a casual dinner per person, so decide in advance whether you want to go ashore for the iguanas.
Who it suits: couples, small groups and anyone wanting a calmer day than a party boat. Families with older children will enjoy it too, though very small children may find the four hours long. Because this is one of the most popular trips, book ahead in the busy winter and spring months. The tour has free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, which gives you room to adjust if the weather turns. Bring a hat, sunglasses, a long-sleeved sun shirt and a dry bag for your phone and wallet.
What to expect
The experience
A guided catamaran sail with a reef snorkel stop, deli lunch and drinks, with beachfront pickup from selected Grace Bay hotels.
Best time
A morning departure, when the wind is usually lighter and the water clearer.
How long
About four hours including the sail, the snorkel stop and any visit to Little Water Cay.
Tips
Confirm that your hotel is on the pickup list, carry cash for tips and the Little Water Cay fee, and wear a sun shirt and reef-safe sunscreen.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples and small groups who want a calm, scenic sail with a snorkel stop and a no-fuss pickup.
- Families
- Works for older children who can snorkel; very young children may find four hours long.
- Couples
- Among the most romantic ways to see the water, with an easy pace and plenty of deck to relax on.
- Pair with
- A long lunch afterward on the beach, or the half-day Iguana Island cruise on another day.
- Time needed
- Four hours on the water plus travel to the departure point if you are not collected.
Good questions
Is hotel pickup included?+
The listing offers beachfront pickup and drop-off by boat from selected Grace Bay hotels. If yours is not on the list, you meet the boat at the departure point.
What food and drink is included?+
Deli sandwiches, fresh fruit, bottled water and soft drinks, plus rum punch and local beer. Snorkel gear and local taxes are also covered.
Is Little Water Cay included?+
The Little Water Cay entrance fee is not included and is paid in cash on the day if you visit. Gratuities for the crew are also extra.
Can non-swimmers join?+
The sail itself is fine for non-swimmers, but the snorkel stop requires comfort in the water. Tell the crew when you board so they can help.
How far ahead should I book?+
In busy months book several days to a few weeks ahead. The listing offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.